Spring is a season of renewal. Flowers bloom, the days get longer, and the weather starts to warm up. For our pets, though, spring also means one thing: shedding. As cats and dogs prepare for the warmer months, their winter coats begin to shed heavily, which can leave fur all over your home and create discomfort for your furry friend if not managed properly.
Whether you’re in Australia, stepping into the vibrant days of spring, or in the United States, where spring follows winter’s chill, seasonal grooming plays a vital role in keeping pets comfortable, healthy, and looking their best.
In this blog, we’ll cover practical grooming tips for springtime, how to manage shedding, and the best ways to care for your pet’s skin during seasonal changes.
Why Pets Shed More in Spring
Shedding is a natural process that allows pets to adjust to temperature changes. In colder months, many cats and dogs grow a dense undercoat for insulation. When spring arrives, they shed this layer to stay cool.
For some breeds—like Huskies, Golden Retrievers, and Maine Coon cats—this can mean significant fur loss. Short-haired pets shed too, but the process may be less noticeable. Understanding this cycle helps you anticipate the grooming needs of your pet.
Brushing: The Key to Managing Shedding
Regular brushing is the single most effective way to reduce loose fur and prevent mats from forming. It also improves circulation and spreads natural oils across the coat, keeping skin healthier.
- For long-haired breeds: Daily brushing with a slicker brush or undercoat rake is ideal.
- For short-haired breeds: Brushing every 2–3 days helps remove loose hairs and dirt.
- Cats: Even self-grooming cats benefit from brushing, which reduces hairballs.
Recommended Tool: A deshedding brush, whhich is excellent for removing loose undercoat without damaging the topcoat.
Bathing: Refresh Without Overdoing It
Bathing your pet helps remove dander, pollen, and excess hair—important during spring when allergens are in the air. But too many baths can strip natural oils, leaving skin dry.
- Dogs: A bath every 4–6 weeks is usually enough. Use a mild pet shampoo formulated for sensitive skin.
- Cats: Unless particularly dirty or smelly, cats rarely need baths, but occasional rinses can help with excessive shedding.
- Tip: Always use lukewarm water and a towel or pet-safe dryer to prevent chills.
👉 Try a gentle shampoo which soothes itchy, dry skin while keeping coats shiny.
Protects dogs for up to 8 months.
Skin Care in Spring: Watch for Irritation
Spring brings not just shedding but also skin sensitivities. Pollen, new grasses, and insects can trigger allergies or irritations in pets. Keep an eye out for:
- Excessive scratching or licking
- Redness or small rashes
- Dry, flaky skin
- Hot spots (inflamed, moist areas of skin)
How to help:
- Wipe paws and fur after outdoor play to reduce pollen exposure.
- Add omega-3 fatty acid supplements (with vet approval) for healthy skin and coat.
- Consult a vet if itching is persistent, as allergies or parasites may be the cause.
Nail and Paw Care
Warmer weather means more outdoor activities. Pets walk on grass, hot pavements, and sometimes even sand, which can affect their paws.
- Trim nails every 3–4 weeks to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
- Check paw pads regularly for cracks or embedded debris.
- Moisturize paw pads with a pet-safe balm if they appear dry.
This is especially important in Australia, where spring days can heat up quickly, and in the US, where pets may still encounter rough winter debris on walks.
Professional Grooming: When to Seek Help
While at-home grooming covers most needs, some pets benefit from professional grooming services, particularly during shedding season. Groomers can:
- Perform deep deshedding treatments
- Trim fur for comfort (not all breeds should be clipped—check with your vet)
- Clean ears and check for infections
- Express anal glands, if necessary
If you struggle to manage heavy shedding or your pet has a thick double coat, scheduling a spring grooming session is a smart move.
Keep Your Home Fur-Free
Spring shedding doesn’t just affect pets—it affects homes too. Regular vacuuming, lint rollers, and washable covers on furniture make a big difference. Brushing pets outdoors can also minimize indoor mess.
Final Woof (and Meow)
Spring is a season of growth, energy, and change—for humans and pets alike. With a little extra grooming effort, you can make the transition easier on your furry companion. Regular brushing, occasional baths, proper skin care, and attention to paws ensure your pet is comfortable and healthy all season long.
Whether you’re in sunny Australia welcoming warmer days or in the US shaking off the last of winter, remember: a well-groomed pet is a happy pet.
